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Reacting to the latest in a string of shocking knife crimes in Croydon, borough commander Jeff Boothe has asked the public to “remain calm and provide any information that will assist in detecting and preventing any further crimes”.

Police found two people had been stabbed outside the Whitgift Centre

Chief Superintendent Boothe added that more officers are being deployed onto the streets – including some not in police uniform.

He said: “Officers in Croydon are undertaking a wide range of measures in order to keep our streets safe and to reassure residents. These include an increase in [their] visible presence, including plain clothes officers.

“Information gained from officers and members of the public will be used to carry out targeted and proactive stop and searches; we intend to arrest and prosecute those who are carrying weapons.

“We will continue to work closely with all of our key partners and local community groups, with our shared objective - to keep our communities safe.”

Monsoon and Accessorize in the Whitgift Centre were taped off following the stabbings

Following the double stabbing, two 17-year-old were arrested on Monday (April 9) and in the early hours of Tuesday (April 10) were charged with various offences.

One is charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent and causing actual bodily harm.

He is also charged with possessing an offensive weapon in a public place which was used to threaten someone and cause them fear.

The second of the accused is also charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent and causing actual bodily harm.

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The boys, who cannot be named because of their age, appeared at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (April 10), where they both pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.

They will go on trial at Croydon Crown Court with a date set for May 8.

Detectives are still investigating and both Centrale and Whitgift shopping centres have been approached by the Advertiser to ask what additional safety precautions, if any, are being taken as a result of last Friday's stabbings, which led to police cordons being put up inside and outside the Whitgift Centre.

Neither have replied with a comment.

Borough Commander Jeff Boothe (Image: Grant Melton)

Looking forward, Chief Superintendent Boothe has urged those who know about criminal activity to come forward.

He said: “We would encourage anyone who suspects someone to be involved in this activity to inform police or a third party, such as [their local] church or youth workers.